The first national digital conference has been held to mark World Animal Day, which addressed – Animal Welfare in our Communities.

It was noted that during the first 8 months of this year, there were around 4,000 phone calls on the emergency number 1717 for an ambulance response. These calls resulted in 518 dogs being rescued, as well as about 400 cats.

NGOs and volunteers working with animals, local councils, the Council for the Protection of Animals, as well as the Commissioner for Animal Rights were invited to this conference.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo speaking during the conference, thanked the entire Animal Welfare team for the hard work they put in with such great dedication, as well as all the NGOs and volunteers who help the animals find a home with families that will truly love them for life.

He emphasised the important role of all in raising awareness of animal welfare issues, while offering them a space in our community with the quality of life they deserve. The Minister also acknowledged the valid contribution of the Animal Welfare Council.

De Refalo explained that through various funding programmes offered to NGOs, the Ministry has provided over €200,000 in assistance in 2019, while local councils that have qualified for LC Care scheme will be provided over €170,000 as and when the 2019 projects are completed.

Competition in 2020 has been greater and the Minister has assured that he will continue to carry out more work in this area through interesting projects in collaboration with local councils.

Minister Refalo concluded his speech by reiterating that on this occasion, all participants were given the opportunity to hear about animal protection projects that have been achieved thanks to the collaboration between the Government and local communities and all those directly involved in animal care.

The Minister stressed the importance of continuing to work together for the benefit of all animals in our community.

The main aim of World Animal Day is to raise the status of animals in order to improve their standards of protection worldwide.

 

 

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